Alston.
February 13.

Trail Runs · South Tynedale Railway, Alston

Run out of England's highest market town and onto the high Pennine moor around it. South Tynedale Railway is England's highest narrow-gauge line, and the trails from Alston climb straight onto open fell with long views down the South Tyne valley. Proper trail running in one of the most remote corners of the North Pennines.

Choose Your Distance

Short Route: approx. 5 km

A single loop from the station, following the river path before climbing onto the moor edge and back. Mixed underfoot with some rough ground and one steady climb. Manageable for a runner who trains regularly. Trail shoes required.

Long Route: approx. 10 km

The short loop extended higher onto the open fell, with a longer sustained climb and exposed running along the ridge before the descent back to Alston. Expect wind on the tops and variable ground. Trail shoes required.

What Is Included

• Marked and marshalled route on the day
• Water station(s) on the long route
• Start and finish at South Tynedale Railway, Alston
• Finisher T-shirt
• Hot food and drink at the venue after your run

What to Bring

• Trail shoes (mandatory, road shoes are not appropriate)
• Windproof or waterproof layer, the Pennines are exposed in February
• Warm layers for the start and finish
• Water and any nutrition you rely on

Date: Saturday 13th February 2027
Start time: 09:00
Start location: South Tynedale Railway, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3JB

Questions? Visit our FAQ page or get in touch.

Gravel Rides · South Tynedale Railway, Alston

Ride the high moorland gravel of the North Pennines from England's highest market town. From Alston the routes head up onto forest tracks and open bridleway above the South Tyne valley, with real gradient, big exposed miles and views that earn themselves.

Choose Your Distance

Short Route: approx. 50 km

A single loop taking in the valley tracks and one long moorland climb before the descent back to Alston. A mix of compacted gravel, rough bridleway and short technical sections. Suitable for a gravel or hybrid bike with tyres 35 mm or wider.

Long Route: approx. 100 km

The full day out, extending deeper into the high Pennines with sustained climbing, loose descents and long exposed sections. A gravel bike with tyres 38 mm or wider is strongly recommended. Expect wind on the tops.

Mandatory Kit: All Riders

• Helmet (mandatory)
• Spare tube and basic tools, there is no mechanical support on course
• Mobile phone with emergency contact number saved
• Windproof or waterproof layer

What Is Included

• GPX file sent ahead of the event
• Marked and marshalled route on the day
• Feed station(s) on the long route
• Start and finish at South Tynedale Railway, Alston
• Hot food and drink at the venue after your ride

Date: Saturday 13th February 2027
Start time: 08:00
Start location: South Tynedale Railway, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3JB

Questions? Visit our FAQ page or get in touch.

13th February 2027 · South Tynedale Railway, Alston, Cumbria

Bring the whole family to England's highest narrow-gauge railway for a fun run on accessible trails that everyone can enjoy together.

This is a limited-capacity event. Secure your spot now before spaces go.

A shorter, accessible route designed so parents, children and grandparents can cross the finish line together. Fully marshalled, fully signposted, and set against the heritage railway and the high Pennine scenery.

• Family-friendly distance, suitable for all ages and abilities
• Heritage railway backdrop
• Fully marshalled course
• Finisher T-shirt included
• Organised by B*Trail in partnership with South Tynedale Railway

Date: Saturday 13th February 2027
Location: South Tynedale Railway, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3JB
Start time: 09:45

Questions? Visit our FAQ page or get in touch.